Mahogany vs. Cherry Wood

While there are many hardwoods used in carpentry and woodworking, few stand out like mahogany and cherry. These luxurious hardwoods are popular in high-end woodworking and the crafting of fine furniture.

While people value both types of wood, each one stands on its own for its unique characteristics. The traits that set them apart are their color, grain, workability, and price.

This guide takes a deeper look into each wood's distinguishing features. The information here can be used to choose between cherry and mahogany for your next woodworking project.

What Is Mahogany Wood?

Even though mahogany trees grow in forests throughout the world, this type of wood is valued for its favorable woodworking features. The trees rely on plenty of sunlight to give them the strength, texture, and deep reddish-brown hue for which they’re known.

Builders and woodworkers use various species of mahogany and wood types that fall under the “mahogany” umbrella, such as Sapele. African mahogany is the most popular species. Grown in the forests of Africa, you can find this species in many unlikely places. For example, 16th-century Spanish builders used this wood in building grand structures, such as palaces. At Osborne Wood, components made from mahogany actually vary due to the large number of subspecies that fall under the “mahogany” name.

When comparing mahogany vs. cherry, mahogany offers easier workability because it's a slightly softer hardwood.

What Is Cherry Wood?

As you compare mahogany vs. cherry, you’ll find that one difference is the origins of these trees. While some mahogany is native to Africa, the black cherry tree is indigenous to North America. Specifically, these trees are commonly found throughout the Midwest.

Cherry wood has a lighter color and retains its shading even when it sits in a warehouse or lumber yard for longer periods of time.

Most people choose cherry wood when they want to maintain the natural beauty of the wood. The processing of cherry trees doesn’t harm the wood, and it comes through the manufacturing process with a smooth, visible grain pattern. A clear stain brings out the best features of cherry wood.

Comparing Mahogany Wood vs. Cherry Wood

There are several factors to consider as you choose mahogany vs. cherry. This section explores those distinctive features to make it easier to select the best wood for your next project.

Durability and Hardness

The Janka Hardness Scale offers the best method for understanding the durability of a wood species. The commonly used method ranks wood on a scale of 0 to 4,000. In comparing the hardness of mahogany vs. cherry, mahogany has a range of 830 to 1,410 lbf. The hardness of mahogany depends on the species and age of the wood.

Cherry wood has a 950 lbf rating on the scale. This rating is usually considered to offer moderate hardness. It holds up longer against humidity and moisture, making it ideal for tropical climates.

Appearance and Aging

Cherry wood has a fine, straight grain with infrequent figuring. Its color is reddish-brown which changes in tone depending on the cut. The heartwood is medium reddish-brown, while the sapwood has a pinkish-yellow tone.

As you compare mahogany vs. cherry, you’ll pick mahogany when you want a more unique look. Mahogany ranges from a pale pinkish brown to a dark reddish brown and may include streaks of medium to dark reddish brown. As the wood ages, its color grows darker. It has a medium coarse texture with wavy grains that sometimes mix or become interlocked.

Mahogany rarely develops knots and blemishes, giving it an uninterrupted appearance and a smooth texture.

Workability

As a hardwood, cherry is relatively easy to work with when cutting or sanding the wood. Cherry wood does tend to chip, so make sure you use sharp tools when working with it. It also absorbs stains better than some other types of hardwoods.

As you weigh the differences between cherry wood vs. mahogany, you’ll discover that mahogany offers easier workability. Whether you use machinery or hand tools, it’s easy to cut, carve, and sand. It bonds well with glue and absorbs stains and finishes to show off the unique features of the grain.

Cost

You might consider your budget when comparing mahogany wood vs. cherry wood. When working with a smaller budget, cherry offers the better option. This wood comes with a more moderate price since black cherry trees are so prominent throughout the United States.

Mahogany needs plenty of sunlight and warmth to grow, so maintaining a steady supply of this wood is challenging. Combined with the need to import the wood, the limited availability of mahogany raises its cost.

Best Applications for Mahogany Wood

As you look at the comparisons between mahogany vs. cherry, keep your project in mind. Do you need a timeless appearance and a longer-lasting wood? If so, mahogany is the better choice. This wood is ideal for use in intricately carved corbels and statement furniture pieces.

Best Applications for Cherry Wood

Distinguishing between mahogany vs. cherry involves looking at the various traits of each wood. When it comes to cherry wood, the best projects are those that combine functionality and aesthetics.

The lower cost and greater availability offer a few extra perks when working with cherry. Use this wood for decorative corbels, furniture legs, and kitchen island supports.

Should You Choose Mahogany or Cherry for Your Next Woodworking Project?

Comparing mahogany vs. cherry might come down to your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a wood that offers easy workability and long-lasting durability, mahogany is the better option. You might also prefer this wood when you want a darker tone or plan to add a finish over the wood.

Choose cherry for a sturdy species that has a lighter hue and a stained, natural finish. Cherry is better when looking for a wood that you’ll use to handcraft cabinetry, or use for decorative features. Since it comes from local forests, cherry wood offers greater sustainability as well.

Where Can You Buy Premium Mahogany and Cherry Wood Products?

After over 45 years in the industry, Osborne Wood maintains a strong reputation for selling high-quality wood products. We offer speedy turnaround and fast shipping on a wide range of products.

Whether you choose cherry or mahogany for your next project, we’re your source for turnings, carvings, mouldings, and more. Contact us to speak to a product specialist or request a free custom quote today!